ShareLife was about $1.2 million away from hitting this year's mark, a figure Arthur Peters was optimistic about raising by the time the campaign ends at the end of July.
"If you look at 225 parishes collectively I believe that we can raise that amount," said ShareLife's executive director. "Parishioners give at different times of the campaign. Some will give at the start of the campaign, some give at the middle of the campaign and I've heard of situations from pastors where parishioners will ask the pastor towards the end of the campaign how are we doing in our parish and how are we doing towards our goal because the answer will influence their decision on much they are willing to give."
Similar to the 2012 campaign, an anonymous donor has committed this year to match new and increased donations to ShareLife. Peters said this has played a significant role in the campaign's success so far.
"We have seen some gifts this year as a result of the matching gift," he said. "There are many examples at many levels, but I can tell you one parishioner increased their collective giving this year in total by $30,000."
And that's not the only financial motivation offered to new donors this year. As part of the federal government's 2013 budget, a new First-Time Donor's Super Credit was introduced. Those eligible for the credit must not have claimed a charitable donations tax credit on their income tax, nor can their spouse have claimed the credit, since 2007. It will increase the old credit by 25 percentage points up to $1,000 made in any taxation year until 2017.
"So there are two additional motivators for people to consider supporting the campaign this year," said Peters. "If somebody has never made a contribution before and this year decides that they want to make a contribution in this last month to ShareLIfe well, a) there is the matching gift opportunity, and b) the new tax credit."
If you happen to be a longstanding donor who isn't able to increase you're contribution this year, Peters said there is always the motivation of knowing you're donations are putting Christ's hands to work.
"In our society today there is a lot of demand for charitable dollars and there are many different options for people to consider when they are making their charitable donations," said Peters. "We at ShareLife are able to demonstrate that we are doing the work and providing important services supported by Catholic values. Through the 43 agencies that are funded through ShareLife we are able to put the hands of Christ into action each and every day."